AHCA's future leader urges member unity

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Kansas Gov. Mark Parkinson, who will take the helm of the American Health Care Association in January, last month rallied members to become involved in lobbying efforts, deliver top-notch care and come together as professionals.

“When the profession is divided, it loses,” Parkinson said at AHCA's annual conference in Long Beach, CA. It was his first address to members.

Parkinson introduced himself to the crowd as an owner and operator. He and his wife, Stacy, established their first facility in 1996 and proceeded to build six more. He noted they did everything from working in the dining room to doing activities with residents over a 10-year span.

Parkinson, who will succeed President and CEO Bruce Yarwood, thanked his predecessor “for all you have done.”

Others expressed similar gratitude to Yarwood, who has led the organization for five years.

A visibly emotional Yarwood, who received a standing ovation, called AHCA a “good, good group,” and said he felt proud to have represented it.

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